Public Administration Early Start (Linked B.S. or B.A. & M.P.A.)
The Early Start MPA (4+1) is a fast-tracked program designed for highly motivated students to continue their education immediately after their bachelor's degree. It is especially beneficial to individuals seeking work or advancement in the government or non-profit sectors. After receiving their undergraduate degree, students will continue with the Master of Public Administration program, taking courses until completing the required 39 credit hours for the degree. Students can choose to pursue a traditional MPA or concentrations in Multisector Public Service or Non-Profit Management and Governance. The MPA program also offers certificates in Public Procurement and Contract Management and Public Administration & Public Policy. Students can complete the Early Start MPA (4+1) in an intensive year of work. A potential course of study may include • Up to 9 credit hours* in the final undergraduate year • 1-3 classes in the Summer • 3-4 courses in the Fall • and 3-4 courses in the Spring The MPA program is flexible and will extend the expected completion time for a student if this proves difficult.
Public Administration Early Start (Linked B.S. or B.A. & M.P.A.)
Description
What is Public Administration Early Start at ODU like?
The Early Start MPA (4+1) is a fast-tracked program designed for highly motivated students to continue their education immediately after their bachelor's degree. It is especially beneficial to individuals seeking work or advancement in the government or non-profit sectors. After receiving their undergraduate degree, students will continue with the Master of Public Administration program, taking courses until completing the required 39 credit hours for the degree. Students can choose to pursue a traditional MPA or concentrations in Multisector Public Service or Non-Profit Management and Governance. The MPA program also offers certificates in Public Procurement and Contract Management and Public Administration & Public Policy. Students can complete the Early Start MPA (4+1) in an intensive year of work. A potential course of study may include • Up to 9 credit hours* in the final undergraduate year • 1-3 classes in the Summer • 3-4 courses in the Fall • and 3-4 courses in the Spring The MPA program is flexible and will extend the expected completion time for a student if this proves difficult.
Program Highlights
What makes Public Administration Early Start at ODU unique?
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Earn up to 12 graduate credits while you complete your bachelor’s degree
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#15 Most Affordable Online Colleges for MPA Degrees, 2019 – OnlineU.org
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Take classes on campus or online
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NASPAA accredited by the Commission on Peer Review & Accreditation
Careers
What are some careers in this field?
The Master of Public Administration in the School of Public Service at Old Dominion University develops professionals trained to lead in diverse, multi-sector environments. Our graduates serve the Hampton Roads region, state, and nation in public administration and public service careers such as city managers, non-profit executive directors, community development directors, law enforcement administrators, financial analysts, public relations managers, human resources managers, and social services administrators.
Education Administrators, Elementary and Secondary School
$97,440
MEDIAN SALARY
Plan, direct, or coordinate the academic, administrative, or auxiliary activities of public or private elementary or secondary level schools.
Public Relations Specialists
$67,990
MEDIAN SALARY
Engage in promoting or creating an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media.
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
$127,690
MEDIAN SALARY
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client; or if engaged in fundraising, plan, direct, or coordinate activities to solicit and maintain funds for special projects or nonprofit organizations.
Chief Executives
$196,050
MEDIAN SALARY
Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
Courses
What are some courses offered in Public Administration Early Start at ODU?
PADM 651:
Administrative Theory I: The Context of Public Administration
Introduction to the profession of public administration; the evolution and development of the field, the role of organizations in contemporary American government, and the roles of politics and administration. The course also provides an introduction to the necessary skills for successful graduate study.
PADM 701:
Public Policy and Evaluation
Exploration of key theories and approaches to public policy. This course covers all phases of the policy process, from formulation to evaluation, with particular focus upon the substance, political dynamics, and evolution of public policy.
PADM 723:
Ethics in Public Administration
This course reviews the theory and application of ethics in the public sector, identifying public values and how they apply in the administration of government. It reviews sources of values employed in public sector decision-making, and reviews how values in public administration are managed and applied. Systems of professional ethics are reviewed in the context of public professions. Case studies and best practices are examined to help the student understand the application of administrative ethics in public management.
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Public Administration Early Start at ODU?
Students entering the BA+MPA,BS+MPA program in Public Administration Early Start should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)
Who Can Apply?
The Early Start MPA (4+1) is suitable for students from any undergraduate major. A few of the traditional disciplines that feed naturally into Public Administration careers are Political Science, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, Economics, Social Work, Education, and Public Service minors.
What Should I Do First?
- As early as possible, tell your academic advisor that you're interested in the early start MPA program. They'll help you plan your undergraduate course of study based on MPA requirements.
- Apply to the MPA program between your junior year and no later than the application deadline during the first semester of the senior year.
Complete general education requirements by the end of your junior year
Achieve a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher at the end of junior year
Apply to the MPA program via Graduate Admissions (i.e., ODU graduate application, including personal statement, GRE or GRE waiver, two letters of recommendation, and other application requirements set by graduate admissions).
When applying, make the application for the session right after completion of the undergraduate degree (example: if graduating in the Spring, apply for that Summer session).
Cost
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Virginia Resident
Per Credit:
$ 374
Non-Resident
Per Credit:
$ 1,039
Active Duty Military Rate
Per Credit:
$ 250
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Per Credit:
$ 407
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Next Steps
I like this program. What are the next steps?
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Contact
Need help applying?
Meet Your Enrollment Team
Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.
School of Public Service Chair
Name:
SAMUEL L. Brown
Location:
209 CONSTANT HALL, NORFOLK, VA, 23529
Email:
Office:
757-683-5825
Undergraduate Admissions
Location:
1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3685
Fax:
757-683-3255
Email:
admissions@odu.edu
International Admissions
Location:
2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3701
Fax:
757-683-3651
Email:
intladm@odu.edu
Transfer
I like this program and want to transfer. What are my next steps?
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transition, engagement, and academic achievement of transfer students. The services and programs offered to you as a Monarch are endless so take advantage of every opportunity. Even before you set foot on campus, we encourage you to Explore, Experience, and Engage! Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
Related Programs
What other options does ODU have?
How would you like to complete your program?
Enhance your college career by gaining relevant experience with the skills and knowledge needed for your future career. Discover our experiential learning opportunities.
Get an inside look into your major of interest when you speak to professors and current students at our monthly First Friday events.
Explore our beautiful campus and its community! Join us for our Spring Open House events in February and March.